It’s frustrating when endless hours at the gym don’t make a difference in your chest shape. For many men, the culprit isn’t fat but dense glandular tissue that remains resistant to diet and exercise. This type of tissue doesn’t respond to typical fat-burning efforts and can be a source of self-consciousness. Gynecomastia surgery provides a targeted solution when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient.
At UMass Memorial Medical Group, Dr. Mustafa Akyurek treats enlarged male breasts with precision surgical care. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon, Harvard Medical School graduate, associate professor of surgery, and director of microsurgery at UMass Memorial Medical Center. His clinical expertise in reconstructive and aesthetic breast procedures enables him to achieve natural-looking results and consistently high patient satisfaction.
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is a condition where excess glandular breast tissue causes chest enlargement in men. Unlike fatty tissue, this growth does not shrink with exercise or weight loss.
Men of all ages may experience gynecomastia due to:
- Hormonal imbalances: Natural estrogen/testosterone shifts, especially during puberty or aging.
- Medication use: Including certain antidepressants, heart medications, and steroids.
- Underlying conditions: Liver or kidney disease, thyroid dysfunction, or tumors.
Even with a lean body, glandular tissue remains firm and often tender beneath the nipple area.
The Difference Between Fat and Glandular Tissue
Many men confuse gynecomastia with pseudogynecomastia, which is caused by excess fat. Here are the key differences between the two:
- Glandular tissue feels firmer and does not respond to diet or exercise.
- Fatty tissue is soft and can be reduced with weight loss efforts.
- Gynecomastia can cause symmetry issues, even when the overall body weight is within a healthy range.
If you notice round, rubbery lumps behind your nipples or persistent chest fullness despite staying active, it could be time for a clinical evaluation.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Gynecomastia surgery becomes a viable option when lifestyle changes don’t resolve the issue. You may be a candidate if you:
- Experience discomfort or embarrassment in fitted clothing.
- Have persistent, dense tissue despite a healthy weight.
- Avoid certain activities, such as swimming or exercising without a shirt.
Surgical removal of glandular tissue restores a flatter, firmer chest. In many cases, liposuction is also used to contour the surrounding area for balanced results. Recovery is manageable, with most patients returning to work within one to two weeks.
Let UMass Memorial Help You Feel More Confident
When it comes to male breast reduction, trust the experience of Dr. Mustafa Akyurek at UMass Memorial Medical Group. Call 508-334-5990 to learn how gynecomastia surgery can help you reclaim your confidence.
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